The Italian Navy is getting ten FREMM multipurpose frigates (Carlo Bergamini class), as pledged when the program began. The final two units, ITS Spartaco Schergat and ITS Emilio Bianchi are slated to begin service in 2025.
The Italian Navy will even receive two extra units as part of the FREMM EVO program, which was just officially notified by the Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAr) to Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, a joint venture owned by Fincantieri (51%) and Leonardo (49%). The contract amount is 1.5 billion euros.
Compared to the Carlo Bergamini class, the FREMM EVO will be outfitted with the SADOC 4 command and control system, a dual-band C/X radar for air defense, and a new electronic warfare suite. It will be designed to support robotic systems (aerial, surface, and underwater drones). Finally, a focus will be made on “cyber resiliency.”
In light of the rapidly changing global landscape, Admiral Enrico Credendino, Chief of the Italian Navy, underscored the significance of this upgrade, stating that the Italian Navy is currently enduring a substantial transformation as part of its broader renewal and modernization plan. This initiative, which involves the acquisition of two new-generation FREMM EVO frigates, intends to improve the Navy’s capabilities and guarantee its readiness to respond effectively to current and future engagement scenarios.
He noted that the FREMM initiative has a demonstrated history of satisfying the Italian Navy’s needs and achieving widespread international recognition. The FREMM’s evolution is based on this strong foundation, integrating state-of-the-art technologies and contemporary systems. These improvements are intended to enhance the ship’s defense capabilities and broaden the scope of activities that can be conducted during missions that are dedicated to the security and defense of Italy. Admiral Credendino emphasized that these enhancements will allow the Navy to rapidly and effectively adjust to the diverse operational requirements of a constantly evolving world.
According to OCCAr, the two FREMM EVO frigates will be delivered to the Italian Navy between June 2029 and June 2030.
It is worth noting that Italy has just announced two large investments in support of the Italian Navy, including orders for a fourth U212 NFS submarine (500 million euros) and five new mine-hunting ships (2.6 billion euros, including logistical support).
